"Laura and I are saddened to learn that Rich DeVos has passed away. Rich was one of the great entrepreneurs - and great Americans - of our time," Bush wrote."He used his business to empower others and advance the universal values of freedom, opportunity, compassion, and personal responsibility. Rich made his country and his community better, and he was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

"I know his family will miss him dearly. Laura and I send all the DeVoses our sincere sympathies, and we hope they take comfort in knowing that Rich and Helen are united again."

DeVos' funeral service began at 2 p.m.

Although the services were private, the public was invited to view a live simulcast of the ceremony in the DeVos Performance Hall at DeVos Place, 303 Monroe Ave. NW., during that time.